How to Fix QuickBooks Desktop Error 1618?

QuickBooks Error 1618 typically occurs during the installation process, often due to incomplete or corrupted installation files. It may also be caused by issues like a corrupted Windows registry, deleted essential program files, or interference from viruses or malware. Additionally, if the Microsoft Installer Executable (MSIEXEC) isn’t functioning properly or there are problems with the Microsoft Runtime Libraries, Error 1618 can arise. Here’s the prompt users encounter when QB Error 1618 occurs: 

It’s essential to recognize early signs like freezing QuickBooks windows, system unresponsiveness, or slow response to inputs. Ensuring your system is updated, backing up QuickBooks files, and closing unnecessary applications are important steps before fixing Error 1618. Here are 10 effective solutions to fix QuickBooks Desktop Error 1618 quickly. 

Solution 1: Check for MSIEXEC.EXE Processes

MSIEXEC.EXE is a core component of Windows Installer services. The steps mentioned below will help resolve error 1618 by fixing the damaged components. 

1. Press Ctrl+Alt+Delete and select Task Manager.
2. In the Processes tab, sort by Image Name.
3. Look for MSIEXEC.EXE processes.
4. End these processes and restart QuickBooks.

Solution 2: Use QuickBooks Install Diagnostic Tool from QuickBooks Tools Hub

QuickBooks Tool Hub fixes certain installation errors in QBDT in one click. Follow the steps given below.

1. Close QuickBooks before using the Tools Hub.
2. Run the QuickBooks Install Diagnostic Tool from the Tools Hub to fix installation issues.

Solution 3: Create a Windows Registry Backup

Creating a backup of the Windows registry will fix any corrupted or conflicting file that triggers QuickBooks Error Code 1618. Follow these steps:

1. Press Windows + R and type regedit.
2. Export the registry to save a backup.
3. Delete the damaged registry keys and subkeys.

Solution 4: Reinstall Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Package

A clean set of QuickBooks files is provided after reinstalling the Microsoft Visual C++ redistributable package, resolving error 1618. Here are the steps for the same:

1. Download the 32-bit or 64-bit version as per your computer system.
2. Follow the instructions to install the package.
3. Run Quick Fix My Program from the QuickBooks Tools Hub.

Solution 5: Update Windows Installer

Updating Windows Installer will help in running multiple installations at once, without facing any errors. Follow these steps:

1. Go to C:\Windows\System32 and find the Windows Installer.
2. Check its version and update it if needed.
3. Restart your computer after updating.

Solution 6: Uninstall and Reinstall QuickBooks

Incorrect or incomplete installation of QBDT is fixed by reinstalling the software. Here are the steps given below:

1. Back up QuickBooks files.
2. Go to Control Panel > Programs and Features to uninstall QuickBooks.
3. Download and run the Clean Install Tool.
4. Reinstall QuickBooks from a trusted source.

Solution 7: Use Clean Install in Selective Startup Mode

The Clean Install Tool will help in isolating the process of QBDT installation. Here’s how you can do this.

1. Switch to Safe Mode using MSConfig (Windows + R).
2. Select Selective Startup and load system services.
3. Disable non-Microsoft services, then restart the computer.

Solution 8: Use System File Checker (SFC)

By using System File Checker, you can detect and fix corrupted system files and fix QuickBooks Desktop Error 1618. Follow these steps:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Type SFC /scannow and press Enter.
3. Allow the tool to repair any corrupted files.
4. Restart your computer after completion.

Solution 9: Check for Active Installations

You end other active installations to ensure QBDT is being installed without any issues. Here are the steps for the same: 

1. Open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc).
2. Look for Windows Installer (msiexec.exe) or other installation processes.
3. End any active processes related to installation.

Solution 10: Run Quick Fix My Program

QuickFix My Program identifies any damage in the program files. Follow the given steps to fix Error 1618 by running QuickFix My Program. 

1. Open the QuickBooks Tool Hub.
2. Go to the Program Problems section.
3. Click on Quick Fix My Program to scan and fix errors.

What are the Prerequisites to Fix QuickBooks Desktop Error 1618?

• Close QuickBooks and all unnecessary programs before starting the fix.
• Use the latest version of QBDT. 
• Back up the QBDT company file to avoid data loss.
• Check for any active installation processes in Task Manager and end them.
• Make sure you have the QuickBooks Tools Hub installed on your system.
• Verify that you have the correct version of Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Package for your system.
• Have a stable internet connection to download necessary updates and tools.

How to Identify QuickBooks Desktop Error 1618?

Users can identify QuickBooks Desktop Error 1618 when the error message mentioned below is displayed along with the error code.

“Error 1618 Another installation is already in progress. Complete that installation before proceeding with this install.”

Apart from this, error 1618 can also be identified by the following indications:

• Error code 1618 shows up during the installation process, interrupting it.
• A QB runtime library error message may appear alongside the error.
• QuickBooks and Windows freeze or hang, making it difficult to use.
• Your PC may become unresponsive or freeze completely.

How to Prevent QuickBooks Error 1618?

• Close all unnecessary applications before starting the QuickBooks installation or update.
• Check Task Manager for any background processes related to Windows Installer (MSIEXEC.EXE).
• End any MSIEXEC.EXE processes if found.
• Avoid running multiple installations or updates at the same time.

When Should You Seek Professional Help for QuickBooks Desktop Error 1618?

Seek professional help for QuickBooks Desktop Error 1618 if the solutions provided do not resolve the issue. When the error persists despite trying all troubleshooting steps, it may indicate a deeper problem with your system or QuickBooks installation. So, seek professional help to avoid any issue in the future.